Superhydrophobic Ni nanocone surface prepared by electrodeposition and its overall performance

This study investigated the electrodeposition of a three-dimensional nanocone-shaped surface structure on SUS304 stainless steel substrates. Different electrodeposition parameters were adopted to generate nanoconeshaped Ni coatings. A detailed description of the coating microstructure and composition is proposed to understand how Ni nanocones develop throughout electrodeposition. A series of wetting tests compared the superhydrophobicity of the Ni nanocone coating. Wear tests were used to verify their mechanical stability. The best superhydrophobic and mechanical performance is achieved after 25 min electrodeposition, where the newly formed Ni nanocones grow to provide additional air cushion to support surface water droplets and promote wear resistance. The superhydrophobic Ni coating also has good anti-icing properties. Water droplets begin to freeze from the contact points between the water and the sample surface. Surface damage, such as scratches and holes, reduces superhydrophobic samples' anti-icing properties.